March 2015 Forum Focus

FORUM FOCUS For Blandford and surrounding villages Issue No. 36

Lauren finds the winning recipe: Page 15

March 2015

Two schools told: must try harder TWO primary schools in the Blandford area have been told they are in need of improvement following inspections last term by inspectors for government education watchdog Ofsted.

The reports on Milldown Primary and Durweston Primary, which both enjoyed 'good' status at their last inspections in 2009 and 2010 respectively, both highlighted weaknesses in governance and leadership, although in both cases the early years provision were found to be good.

At Milldown the quality of teaching and achievement of pupils were found lacking, but inspectors noted that the school had experienced significant changes in teaching staff since the previous inspection. Head teacher Sue Ryall said steps were already being taken to address the situation.

The inspectors also found that leadership and management could be improved by ensuring that checks on the school's performance fully involved middle leaders and bringing about planned improvements as quickly as possible, and making more effective use of additional government funding to develop the skills of disadvantaged pupils.

They called for an external review of the school's use of the pupil premium to assess how this aspect of leadership and management may be improved.

They noted that the number of pupils with special educational needs was above the national

average, and highlighted strengths including positive staff morale after a period of changes in staffing, promotion of trusting relationships in pupils, and the school's work to keep pupils safe and secure.

Mrs Ryall said: "It was disappointing not to receive 'good' in all areas, but we recognise that the inspection was under a new framework, and we are already well placed to make the changes to improve and had already iden-

Durweston Primary School. tified some of the issues. We have drawn up an action plan which will be shared with parents and have already seen improvements this term."

She said that although, with 143 pupils on roll, the school had not reached capacity, a large intake in Blandford this summer would see all schools under pressure to find places.

At Durweston, where there are 179 pupils on roll, the inspectors found that pupils were achieving

well and attainment was above the national average by the end of Year 6, with good teaching, well-behaved pupils proud of their school, and additional government funding used well to help eligible pupils achieve.

But to improve the school needed to ensure all staff were confident in following procedures for raising pupil safety concerns and that governor training was kept up to date and responded to concerns To Page 2

Pre-schoolers have reason to smile

PIMPERNE Pre-School, meanwhile, is celebrating an early years inspection which found it to be 'good', with staff working well together as a team and making very positive use of effective questions to encourage children to develop their learning through play.

The inspectors nevertheless found that arrangements for consistently sharing information on children's care and learning with other

providers and parents could be further developed.

Pre-school spokesperson Kim Lillington said: "We are extremely pleased with our inspector's comments. We understand what a special time this is in a child's life and we want to make this time as special as we can. As a team we pride ourselves on offering a welcoming family feel, where everyone is valued."

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March 2015

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THE main drop points are: Blandford and Blandford St Mary: The Post Office, Library and Parish Centre in The Tabernacle, the Corn Exchange, Gorge Cafe and Blandford Museum in the Market Place, the Tourist Information Centre in West Street, James Newsagents in The Plocks, the Co-ops in Salisbury Road and Langton Road, the 3Cs in Damory Street, the Damory Garage and One Stop in Salisbury Road, Cherry's hairdressers in Elizabeth Road, Blandford Leisure Centre in Milldown Road, the Central Shop in Heddington Drive, the Brewery Visitor Centre, and Tesco and Homebase at Stour Park.

In the villages: Charlton Marshall Church Rooms and Charlton pub, Woodpecker pub at Spetisbury, True Lovers Knot and St Richard Close bus stop in Tarrant Keyneston, Langton Arms in Tarrant Monkton, Pimperne shop, the White Horse Inn at Stourpaine, Iwerne Minster post office, Shillingstone Garage, Londis Shop & Royal Oak at Milborne St Andrew, The Crown at Winterborne Stickland, Post Office and Surgery, Milton Abbas, and The Cricketers at Shroton.

We know that many of you pick up quantities of Forum Focus to take to friends, neighbours or other venues from our drop points and are delighted that that is the case. But to avoid duplication with our volunteer deliverers, please let us know by email to distribution@forumfocus.co.uk or calling 01258 456999. If there is no delivery in your street or venue, please consider helping us by joining the team.

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en cim ve e p S emo to r

Five declared for the General Election battle AT least five candidates will be lining up to contest the North Dorset Parliamentary seat in the forthcoming General Election.

It follows the adoption of Simon Hoare as Conservative successor to the retiring Tory MP Robert Walter, and of Richard Barrington as Green Party candidate.

Already announced as prospective parliamentary candidates were Hugo Mieville for the Liberal Democrats, Kim Fendley for Labour and UKIP candidate Steve Unwin.

The poll on 7th May coincides with the election for seats on North Dorset District Council and on parish and town councils.

Details of all the candidates will be published in next month's Forum Focus.

On 18th February, a 'Councillor Open Day' was hosted by North Dorset District Council for anyone

Forum Focus is an independent, not-for-profit, community newspaper produced entirely by volunteers.

We are always pleased to receive offers of help.

considering seeking election to the district council, and funding of ÂŁ7,600 from the Cabinet office has been used to maximise elector registration.

Letters have been sent to all households in the district advising what currently exists on the register and encouraging people to correct any inaccuracies.

Presentations have been held at The Blandford School urging students who are entitled to vote to ensure they are registered.

A new registration system introduced last year means that instead of householders being asked to complete a form on behalf of everyone living at a particular address, each individual qualified to vote should register themselves online at gov.uk/register-to-vote and supply their details.

Boundary changes coming into

force in May mean that a number of properties will be in new or different wards which could mean different polling stations for some electors, but details will be given on their polling cards.

Key changes in Blandford are the amalgamation of Station and Damory Down wards into one Central ward served by two district councillors and seven town councillors, while in the parishes there are revisions to the existing two-member Hill Forts ward and single-member wards of Cranborne Chase and The Beacon.

Two schools are criticised From Page 1 raised by parents and staff.

Inspectors called for an external review of governance to assess how this aspect of leadership and management may be improved.

No-one was available to comment on the report, which described "tensions in the working relationships between the school's leaders and a minority of staff". The leadership showed a positive sense of purpose towards continued improvement which was not shared by all staff, and parent responses showed a mixed level of support for the school and uncertainty about the quality of leadership from "a significant minority".

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March 2015

Regulars bid to save pub from closure REGULARS at the last remaining Blandford pub outside the town centre have launched a campaign to list it as an asset of community value and oppose any possible redevelopment of the site.

Rhia Jones and Sara Niven Smith moved to Blandford recently and found their local, The Wheatsheaf in Albert Street, a source of information, help and friendship which made them feel so welcome that they are spearheading the campaign to keep it.

Rhia said: "I only moved to Dorset a year ago and through The Wheatsheaf I have made an unbelievable number of close friends.

"A couple of weeks after I moved in opposite the pub, a series of disasters left me alone and without heating or hot water for the whole weekend. People rallied round and found someone who could help me out and I've felt part of the family ever since.

Sara said: "There are other places you can go for a drink with a friend but the Wheatsheaf is somewhere most of us come to meet friends or make new ones.

Without it many of us would never have got to know our neighbours.

"I moved to this street as a single mother from out of town and on my first visit my daughter and I were immediately invited to a barbecue. Since then I have been in for advice on everything from workmen I can trust to second hand car dealers, and I regard the staff as friends.

"There's a strong sense of community and if the pub went it would have a detrimental effect on many people's lives and the street

generally.'

When they started their campaign to nominate The Wheatsheaf as an Asset of Community Value they were aware that the pub's future was potentially uncertain as the lease between Hall and Woodhouse and the freeholder runs out next year.

Rhia said: "We asked local residents and pub regulars to show their support and have sent the nomination off to North Dorset District Council. Acceptance, should the freeholder decide to move on, will give a six-month moratorium to see if we as a community could come up with a business plan to viably manage The Wheatsheaf as a community pub.

"However, since our nomination was submitted I have learnt that the freeholder may want to develop the site into residential properties. We will be urging people to write to the council to object on a number of grounds."

The Wheatsheaf has for a number of years been owned by an investment company and leased back to its previous owners, the Hall & Woodhouse brewery. Jan Coduri and Phil Farmer have been licensees there for nearly 20 years.

Head of property at the brewery, Liz Abrahams, said: "Hall and Woodhouse's lease of the Wheatsheaf expires in September 2016.

"We are aware that an application to have the public house listed as a Community Asset has been made but we do not know what the freeholder's plans for the public house post September 2016 are."

The Wheatsheaf opened in 1865 along with a number of other hostelries outside the town centre and homes developed in the mid-19th century when the railway came to Blandford. It has operated as licensed premises ever since.

The Wheatsheaf has outlived other pubs of the same and a later date, including the Badger Hotel in Park Road, the Coachmakers Arms in Damory Street, the Damory Oak in Damory Court Street, the D'Amory Arms in Salisbury Road, the Eagle Tavern in Charles Street, the Prince of Wales in Oakfield Street, the Railway Inn in Damory Court Street, the Rose and Crown in Dorset Street and the White Horse in Orchard Street. Only the Railway Hotel in Oakfield Street remains from that era.

Rhia Jones and regulars at The Wheatsheaf who are campaigning against its possible closure.

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March 2015

Wasted money criticism over plan to fly a ÂŁ58 flag BLANDFORD will, for the first time ever, be flying the Commonwealth flag from the Corn Exchange at 10am on Monday 9th March.

But the decision by the town council to accept an invitation from central government to 'Fly the Flag for the Commonwealth' was criticised in a series of emails to councillors from resident Peter Newall.

He expressed his displeasure at the concept of using taxpayers' money for the purpose of celebrating countries with poor human rights records.

Mayor and Chairman of Council, Councillor Steve Hitchings, responded saying Commonwealth Day was an annual celebration held on the second Monday in March and marked by a multi-faith service in Westminster Abbey normally attended by the Queen as head of the Commonwealth.

"The modern Commonwealth was established in 1949 as an association of free and equal sovereign states which had been part of the British Empire but were now independent. Flying the flag in Blandford is showing the town council's support at extremely low cost compared to the significance of the day."

Mr Newall had been advised that the cost of the flag was ÂŁ58.

Mr Hitchings went on to quote the Commonwealth Charter section on human rights which he said made clear the position and commitment of Commonwealth nations to the Universal Declaration of

Human Rights. He said: "I am sure that if you look back into most countries' histories you would find items that in this modern age they may well be embarrassed by."

The Mayor will read out the Commonwealth Affirmation prior to the flag-raising and members of the public are invited to join with the town council to mark the occasion.

Commonwealth flags will also be flown in towns throughout the country and at many locations of special significance across the world including Malta, New Zealand, Belize, Jamaica, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, the Rothera Research Station on the Antarctic Peninsula and the remote island of Tristan Da Cunha.

Kamalesh Sharma, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, said: "Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth is a most imaginative way for people in local communities - wherever they live, learn or work - to join together with others throughout the Commonwealth in a spirit of respect and understanding to celebrate the variety of unmatched diversity of our global family. I welcome and commend it.

"All our citizens, particularly the young, can express appreciation for the Commonwealth and the values it stands for, as set out in the Commonwealth Charter, and the rich opportunities it offers for mutual support towards more inclusive social and more equitable economic progress."

A better grasp of dementia A PERSPECTIVE on working with people with dementia and their families will be offered to those attending an all-day seminar in the Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, Blandford, on Saturday 21st March.

'See ME rather than my dementia' will explore the Dementia Friendly Communities Initiative and the role of people in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

There will be an opportunity to learn about the types of dementia and diagnosis, communication skills, the role of the church community and other organisations, and an introduction to live story work as well as the legal perspective on care and support.

Facilitators are Ben Bano, director of the Welcome Me as I am project, and Elizabeth Webbe, solicitor with Trethowans.

The seminar is free of charge, but a contribution is requested to cover expenses. People are asked to book by calling Mrs M Holt on 01258 452817 between 9am and 10am or after 7pm.

Wine bar application A NEW wine bar is planned in Salisbury Street at the junction with Whitecliff Mill Street in the building recently used as the Julia's House charity shop.

A planning application has been submitted by Ellbee Financial Services for the change of use to provide accommodation for up to 30 customers.

Town councillors at their planning committee meeting were advised of the application which had been submitted after their agenda had been drawn up and so not advertised for public comment, and agreed to consider it at their next full council meeting.

But they noted that the toilet provision would be on the first floor of the building.

Councillor Sylvia Hixson Andrews said: "I don't like it, but it's like half the buildings in the town which don't provide for the disabled."

At the same meeting councillors considered the licensing application for the premises, which have been given the name 'Mais Oui', for hours between 10.30am and 10.30pm and again raised no objection.

Elite choristers to perform EIGHT exceptional young choristers will be performing in St Andrew's Church Fontmell Magna on Thursday 12th March.

They are the Monteverdi Apprentices, selected from hundreds of applicants for the programme established in 2007 to enable promising young performers to experience the highest professional level of performance.

They will be introduced by Sir John Eliot Gardiner at the recital, which starts at 6.30pm.

A limited number of tickets are available. Call The Springhead Trust, Fontmell Magna on 01747 811853 or email info@springheadtrust.org.uk.

Bus2Go moves on THE new office of community transport charity Bus2Go opened in the Resource Centre at Spectrum's Signpost House on Sunrise Business Park on the afternoon of Friday 27th February. See the report in next month's Forum Focus.

March 2015

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March 2015

£250,000 refurb for village flats

Work underway on the flats at Hod View, Stourpaine.

Emotional help offered A GROUP set up just over a year ago offers emotional help to those in need of the support of like-minded people.

Tracy White is the secretary and founder member of BESS, the Blandford Emotional Support Society, set up by five members of a cognitive behavioural therapy course and recommended by their GPs to help them learn the skills to move forward from the difficulties they have faced in their lives.

They meet fortnightly at the Communal Lounge, Station Court, Damory Court Street, from 9.45am until 12.45pm.

SPECTRUM Housing Group has started work on major environmental improvement work at two of their blocks of flats in Hod View, Stourpaine.

The work, costing around £250,000, which started in January and is expected to be completed by April, includes fitting the 1960s building with exterior wall insulation and a coloured render finish to make the fabric of the building more resistant to the weather, and making the flats more energy efficient.

Spectrum will also be adding further loft insulation, photo voltaic panels to the roof and refurbishing its existing ground source heat pumps.

Bryn Shorey, property services director at Spectrum said: "In 2013 Spectrum Housing Group decided to make additional investment in its existing homes which have lower than Band C Housing Energy Ratings (HERS).

Spectrum's corporate plan includes bringing 75 per cent of

its homes into Band C or above by 2018."

The flats are built in an exposed location and have historically suffered from a loss of heat, making it difficult to control temperature and humidity within the flats.

"The solution we are using is to encapsulate the building with an external layer of rigid insulation which is then wrapped with a protective mesh which will have a coloured render finish," said Mr Shorey.

The benefits are the protection of the existing building and increased insulation. The process alongside the installation of Photo Voltaics on the roof will make the flats warmer and require less energy to heat, which is great for residents."

The refurbishment of the ground source heat pumps will mean that heat continues to be taken from the ground and add to the energy savings. They will continue to reduce Spectrum's reliance on fossil fuels.

Beware the ‘free trial’ con tricks MOST would find adverts for free trials of some new, miracle antiageing facecream, slimming treatment or health cure tempting - but always be wary; you rarely get something for nothing.

The Citizens Advice Consumer Service has seen a large increase in the number of complaints about these so-called free trials, and the advice is to always read the small print to see whether you are signing up for a monthly subscription for the goods once the free trial had ended, or the trial leads automatically to a monthly subscription if you don't cancel.

A pop-up advert may appear online, and when you select the 'free trial' option, you are required to give your bank details to pay for postage and packing.

Weeks or even months later you discover that a much larger amount has been taken from your account, maybe even hundreds of pounds a month.

The message is: if you can't see the terms and conditions or there aren't any, don't give the compa-

ny your bank details.

Bear in mind that when you buy these types of products online, you have no way of knowing what they actually contain or how they might affect you. It is unlikely that the products have been tested or proven to work. Don't be fooled by fake testimonials from apparently satisfied customers.

And although the businesses selling often appear to be in the UK, they are often based overseas, making it much more difficult to contact them or to obtain a refund if you are unhappy with the goods.

For further information and advice call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 040506 or visit adviceguide.org.uk.

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March 2015

Businesses urged to make the most of IT THE Dorset Growth Hub has launched a Digital Growth campaign to help companies embrace the power of technology to boost their competitiveness in the local, national and global marketplaces.

Businesses in Blandford were urged to become more switched-on to realising their digital potential at one of a series of drop-in events county-wide, held in the parish centre on 17th February, which offered digital health checks and grant vouchers in the free programme of events and activities.

Delivered in partnership with the Dorset

Growth Hub and the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, it followed an interactive conference in Bournemouth in January at which keynote speakers were Intergage managing director Paul Tansey and Key Multimedia managing director David Lukins.

Tony Latham, who is a Dorset Growth Hub advisor, said: "The digital world moves at a rapid pace. With thousands of potential customers online every day, it has never been more important for businesses to make sure they are up to speed.

"Digital Growth will offer valuable insights into

Town Council tax rise on the cards BLANDFORD Town Council was expected in February to set a budget resulting in a 4.8 or 5.8 per cent increase on the current year.

At a series of pre-budget setting meetings, members considered whether or not the council would receive part of funding promised by central government to compensate for changes in council tax from North Dorset District Council, and whether a referendum would be required to increase the council tax by more than two per cent.

North Dorset last month agreed to pass on the funding, and central government have confirmed that town and parish councils will not be required to hold a referendum if they propose high increases.

Councillor Mike Owen said the town had suffered a 15 per cent hike last year, and could not see how an increase above inflation could be justified.

But fellow councillors said they should resist the temptation to

keep council tax down and run the risk of being capped at a low level, as the district council had been.

Town Mayor Councillor Steve Hitchings said: "I would be happy to defend this budget at a referendum."

To reach the total of ÂŁ696,606, councillors agreed to prepare for an expected underspend in the council's staff pension provision and reduce the amount of new money put aside for projects already well budgeted for.

At their meeting to finalise the budget, after Forum Focus went to press, they also considered whether to rebuild reserves in line with the recommendation of their auditors.

Other elements of the council tax are expected to remain the same as this year for Dorset County Council, North Dorset District Council, the fire authority and the Dorset Police Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill, who announced that it would be frozen at the 2014/15 level.

Flats scheme dismay NEW proposals for the redevelopment of the derelict site in Oakfield Street with 10 two-bedroom flats have been opposed by Blandford town councillors. They say it remains overdevelopment, impacts adversely on the conservation area, and still lacks enough parking.

Earlier proposals, including the most recent scheme for 21 one-bedroom flats of which a number would have been affordable, have been rejected on similar grounds by North Dorset District Council.

Recent changes to the requirements from central planning policy for the provision of affordable housing contributions from new development mean that applicants 010 Ltd will not need to make any of the flats available for social housing.

Town councillors also objected to an application from B&D Builders for the discharge of an obligation to make one of the three houses built on the site of the former tyre depot in Damory Court Street affordable, saying that the central government announcement should not be applied retrospectively.

how digital technologies are shaping the business world today and how they can be harnessed to help businesses become more competitive in a fast-changing marketplace."

A further Digital Growth event is being held at Weymouth Pavilion on 3rd March from 9am to 1pm.

Mr Latham added: "Whether you are taking your first steps online or are more advanced, these events will arm you with the knowledge and ideas to help drive your business forward."

For more information, call Tony Latham on 08454 586 480 or see dorsetgrowthhub.co.uk.

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March 2015

Apprentice boost NORTH Dorset MP Bob Walter has welcomed the strong contribution from North Dorset to the two million apprenticeship starts during this Parliament.

According to the National Apprenticeship Service, between 2013 and 2014 alone there were over 400,000 total apprenticeship starts in the UK, and 1,730 of them have benefited young people in this constituency. Some 600 were intermediate apprenticeship starts, 1,110 advanced and 20 higher level.

Mr Walter said: "Apprenticeships are absolutely vital to equip people of all ages with skills that employers in Britain increasingly need to compete in the global marketplace. To see North Dorset contributing to these impressive statistics is most welcome."

The bus stuck between parked cars in Larksmead during a Sunday morning rugby match.

Haphazard parking brings bus to a halt A PUBLIC service bus was held up for half-an-hour in Larksmead on Sunday 8th February because of cars inconsiderately parked by parents bringing their children to the Blandford Rugby Club ground off the Pavilions.

Residents said that since the Sunday morning training sessions started last September, there had regularly been congestion which frequently made it difficult for vehicles and pedestrians to get through because people were parking on both sides of the road, and straddling the kerb.

"This morning I could not have turned left coming out of my drive because of a car parked immediately next to it, and often the parking obstructs people's driveways," said Amy Dennis, who lives on the corner.

"I've had to tell my dad, who is helping me with doing the garden, that he has to come early in the morning, otherwise he can't get his van in."

Police had to be called on Sunday to track down the car drivers and get them to move the parked cars to allow the Damory X8 service bus and its passengers to go on their way.

North Dorset Police Inspector Rob Chalkley said he had asked Sergeant James Dimmack, who supervises the Blandford Town Safer Neighbourhood Team, to make contact and seek a solution that ensures matches take place with minimal impact on local residents.

Adam Keen, Morebus operations manager, said: "I am aware of a recent incident where an X8 bus was held up for several minutes while attempting to pass cars parked on both sides of the road, close to Blandford Rugby Club.

"My understanding is that this was a oneoff situation, and that our drivers are usually able to negotiate what is an incredibly busy road during the rugby season on Sundays."

He asked drivers to consider carefully

where they parked along any bus route so that the buses could stick to their published timetables.

"In this case, we are working with Blandford Rugby Club to try and ensure the route is kept clear in future and that our buses are able to proceed unhindered."

Rugby Club vice-chairman and chairman of the youth section Simon Evans replied to Ms Dennis's complaint, apologising and saying that most of the parents of Blandford youth section and the senior players of the club walked to the venue.

They were fully aware of the parking issues and educated to car-share where possible, and not to block driveways or park on pavements or grass verges.

"The existing car park has been white-lined in order to get the maximum number of cars into its area, and on youth fixture Sundays when visiting clubs attend for matches, an email is sent to all visiting clubs to advise them of the parking. A sign is placed at the entrance to advise if the car park is full and ask people to be courteous and not cause unnecessary obstructions.

"I do appreciate that parking is a premium and I fully understand local frustration, but after taking every reasonable and responsible step to try and avoid confrontation with residents, the club cannot be held responsible for the parking of visitors to the area. It is down to the police to enforce any parking regulations and offences which come to light."

He added that on the day in question, he and the youth section were aware of the issues, but could not discover who had parked their cars or distinguish between visitors to houses or visitors to the matches.

"Like any new club we are developing new ways of combating issues, and we will advise the visiting club of the problems caused to prevent a reoccurrence."

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March 2015

Another health fair planned THE DT11 Forum community partnership is planning another Health & Wellbeing event, this time taking place in the Corn Exchange, Blandford, over two days in June.

Last year the event was staged in the Sealy Suite at the Crown Hotel, and included a third activity day at which local organisations were invited to stage events, including a town walk, bike ride and run on the Trailway.

Blandford town councillors in February considered whether its Sports Expo, originally planned for 20th June, might be incorporated into the Health and Wellbeing event on 5th and 6th June.

Health and wellbeing organisations are being invited to promote themselves on the Friday, and fitness and sports organisations on the Saturday, using the Shambles, Corn Exchange and Town Hall.

Grants to cover the cost of the event will be sought from the town council, Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group and other relevant bodies.

Pupils record school’s radio commercial PUPILS from Knighton House School experienced the high-tech world of recording studios making a radio advert for the school's open day on Saturday 28th February.

Four girls from a range of year groups learnt a script, donned headphones and went into the state-of-the-art new recording studios at Bryanston School.

They only needed two takes to get the recording done and then marvelled at how the technician finessed the recording and played back

School bus reprieved A SCHOOL bus taking children from Stourpaine to Durweston Primary School has been saved - for the time being at least.

Dorset County Council has indicated to the school that the panel considering the withdrawal of the service want to walk the alternative 'walk to school' route after it has been raining before making a final decision. The bus will continue running at least until the end of the spring term.

Parents in Stourpaine objected to the withdrawal of the bus and being told their children should walk to school on the grounds that the walking route was regularly flooded, and walking to school required children to cross two busy A roads.

the finished advert in a matter of minutes.

"It was the most amazing thing I have ever done, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I can't believe our voices will be on radio so soon," said year 6 pupil Louisa.

Headmistress Sarah Wicks said: "It was a tremendous experience for the girls to record the radio ad and we are so grateful to Bryanston for letting us use their studios."

The advert was due to be played on local radio over the following few weeks.

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Letters to the Editor

March 2015 Do write to Forum Focus if there is something you'd like to comment on or share with other readers.

Email your letter, which should be as brief as possible, to: editor@forumfocus.co.uk.

Alternatively, you can call 01258 459346 or deliver your letter by post or by hand to: Forum Focus, c/o

Colin's Community Club, 49 Damory Street, Blandford DT11 7HD. Please mark your letter 'for publication' and remember to include your address, which will not be used in full.

Forum Focus reserves the right to shorten or edit letters in the interests of clarity, brevity and style.

I’ll be back Meanness Bus puzzle Kind Tesco I AM a local plumber in Blandford and have been temporarily out of action since 8th December due to 'herneating' my lowest lumbar spinal disc as a result of a work injury, and am likely to be facing surgery.

I would like to thank all my customers who have supported me since my business was established in August 2005 and apologise for not being able to help you currently.

If all goes to plan I am hoping to be back working at full capacity around April or May. However, I have two local plumbing colleagues who are willing to help me support my business and look after my customers while I am unable to work. The landline (01258 459243) has an automated message with their details and will be updated as progress is known.

Julian Rudek Domestic Plumbing & Heating

MEAN neighbours in Nursery Road, Blandford, are deliberately stopping families with young children and disabled children from parking near their houses by parking on the road and not using their drives.

Even after being spoken to, one resident deliberately parks two cars on the road and another resident also parks on the road wasting their own drive plus the space in front of their drive.

Although it is not illegal, it is not neighbourly. The houses at the top of Damory Street have always had the opportunity to park in Nursery Road but with the increased numbers of dropped kerbs, the spaces are now limited. This is a common problem in Blandford with increased houses popping up.

I just think it is something that needs to be told.

Donna Cox, address supplied.

CAN anyone tell me why the bus stop is located in West Street, where major obstruction is caused, particularly when there are two buses at the same time and deliveries are being made on the opposite side of the road?

Why not relocate it into the Marsh and Ham car park, where there is already a coach bay, and where buses could easily turn in and around without causing any obstruction at all?

Colin D, (Name & address supplied), Blandford Ed note: Suggestions were made recently for a bus terminal in either the Marsh and Ham or Langton Road car park but town councillors were told it had been ruled out by the bus company.

PLEASE can we say a big thank you to all the staff at Tesco, Blandford, where we held a charity collection and were made to feel very welcome.

We really were bowled over by the hospitality shown to us by the staff and the generosity of their customers.

The collection raised a super amount of £563, and all of the proceeds will go towards outings and entertainment for the Blandford Blind Club.

Margaret Hemus Club leader - Blandford Blind Club (Dorset Blind Association)

£1,000 for good causes COLTEN Care's Whitecliffe House in Whitecliff Mill Street, Blandford, raised more than £1,000 last year for causes including the Blandford Parish Church Cupola Project, Breast Cancer Wear it Pink, MacMillan Cancer Support, Children in Need and the RNLI. Residents, families and staff also helped St Margaret's Hospice and Somerset flood victims with a series of fundraising fetes, coffee

mornings, dinners, and raffles and sponsored events.

Karen Burdon, activities manager at Colten Care, said: "It's entirely up to our residents which charities we support. Once the choice is made, we all get behind it.

Team members like to take part in sponsored events, such as walks and bike rides, and we enable our residents to contribute directly in meaningful ways such as making arts and crafts to sell."

Burglars target Valley POLICE have appealed for witnesses after two burglaries in the Tarrant Valley in the first week of February.

Thieves smashed a window of a house in Tarrant Hinton and took cash between 9am and 2pm on Thursday 5th, and broke into a bungalow in Tarrant Gunville by forcing a window between 10am and 10.25am the following day.

PC Shane Hewitt said: "Witnesses

reported seeing a black vehicle leaving the driveway of the property in Tarrant Hinton at around 1pm on 5th February and I am keen to hear from anyone who saw a similar vehicle in the area."

Anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 6:118 for the Tarrant Gunville crime and 5:203 for Tarrant Hinton.

Local plan inquiry date set BLANDFORD town councillors have agreed that the consultant appointed by the Blandford + Neighbourhood Plan Group will represent the council's point of view at the public inquiry into the North Dorset Local Plan, due to start on Tuesday 10th March.

Watch out for an invitation to all residents in Blandford, Blandford St Mary and Bryanston to public meetings and to take part in an online survey on behalf of Blandford + . Paper copies will be available from the town council office.

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March 2015

Quixote at Durweston THE tale of Cervantes' wandering Don Quixote of La Mancha will be retold by Little Soldier Productions at Durweston village hall on Friday 6th March in an award-winning take on the timeless novel.

Accompanied only by a guitarist, Patricia Rodriquez and Mercè Ribot employ physical comedy and live music to promote innovative cross-cultural artistic collaborations and produce funny yet touching shows, exploiting their Spanish backgrounds and English setting.

The Artsreach promotion is described as an imaginative and provocative adventure of epic proportions, suitable for ages 14+, which should to be taken with a pinch of salt, and a handlebar moustache!

For tickets call 01258 452641.

Fireworks spectacular planned PLANS are being considered for a firework display on Larksmead recreation ground on Friday 6th November to be jointly hosted by Blandford Forum Town Council and Blandford Rugby Club.

Details of the proposal were presented to the town council on 16th February when members were asked whether or not to proceed with the venture, which would include the provision of refreshments, including a barbecue, and entertainment from 5.30pm before the 15-minute display at 7.30pm.

Town councillors in November had agreed to support the principle of a fireworks event, but insisted that a professional company be brought in to be respon-

sible for risk assessments, and said they would look favourably on a grant application.

A site meeting in January between representatives of the council, rugby club and a professional company discussed a range of issues, including whether it would be possible to charge admission, the ÂŁ3,000 cost of the display and other costs, including entertainment hire, signage and provision of toilets, and the need for a temporary 30mph speed restriction on the bypass in case of a smoke build-up obscuring drivers' view of the road.

A limited number of road closures would also be necessary.

It was noted that parking would

Award for Spectrum scrutineers panel RESIDENTS from Spectrum Housing Group's scrutiny panel have been given a prestigious award for their work in the Tenant Participation Advisory Service southern final.

The Spectrum Residents' Group (SRG) are a small group of resident volunteers who give up their time to scrutinise the work of their landlord.

They have an 'access all areas pass' to investigate any aspect of Spectrum's services and business functions and make recommendations to the board to improve services and achieve better value for money.

They won the Excellence in Tenant Led Scrutiny award.

Terry Rance, chair of the SRG, said: "I am immensely proud and honoured to have received

this award for the members of the SRG and for the whole of Spectrum Housing Group staff and tenants alike.

"It is recognition that tenant (resident) involvement has a major role to play in the success of the organisation, which was borne out by the fact that the CEO Richard Hill was at the event."

He thanked Spectrum's Resident Network Director Yasmin White and Resident Network Co-ordinator Jo Winch for their tireless efforts over the last five years that the group has been going. The group will now go forward to the national final on 9th July.

Spectrum was also shortlisted for excellence in co-regulation and resident involvement officer of the year (Paul Mobbs).

be a major issue and that efforts would need to be made to ask the public not to drive to the location.

A report to the February council meeting from town clerk Linda Scott Giles and grounds and property manager Jon Goodenough noted that concerns had already been raised over various issues with residents of neighbouring properties after 12 months of ongoing activity at Larksmead since the Rugby Club took possession. The next phase

of the project is a pavilion extension which could cause further concern and objection.

It stated: "Inevitably there will be a large number of complaints both before and after the event from local residents, and the event will be a time-consuming one for both office staff and outside staff on the day."

"However, the rugby club is still keen to hold a display this year, and has advised that they would like to work together to achieve a community event."

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March 2015

Trailway diversion during Milldown building A TEMPORARY pedestrian route will be provided over the North Dorset Trailway on the Milldown when construction begins on the 43 homes to be built on the site of the former Milldown Primary School.

Town councillors learnt of the proposal to erect a pedestrian footbridge, and were reminded that a permanent kerbed footpath had been incorporated into the scheme for pedestrians using the former

railway bridge, which has now been strengthened to ensure it can cope with extra traffic from the development.

But they remained less than satisfied that there was to be no permanent alternative to schoolchildren and dog walkers having to share the narrow roadway with cars and lorries once the new homes were built.

When the detailed plans for the

scheme were considered at their February planning committee meeting, councillors raised no objections to the proposed layout, house style and landscaping proposals, but remained concerned that the footpath over the bridge would be no more than a metre wide.

Councillor Esme Butler, a member of the development management committee at North Dorset District Council, which will be asked to

Car park for Shillingstone station WORK is expected to start in March on the creation of a car park near Shillingstone station to serve visitors to both the station and the North Dorset Trailway.

A ÂŁ10,000 grant from North Dorset District Council will help fund the project on the small triangle of land near Hayward's Bridge on the road to Child Okeford.

A request has been made for the car park to be closed at night so that it is not filled up with residents' parking, forcing visitors to park on the verges near the ramp up to the Trailway.

Plans by the Station Project to extend its track so that steam engines can run further up and down the route next to the Trailway have raised concern.

Lesley Gasson, chairman of the North Dorset Trailway Network, said in her latest newsletter: "They are planning to take 175 metres, put in points and two tracks, and hoping to expand their operations so that an engine can run up and down to the points and they can store trucks on the side.

"We have pointed out that the Trailway takes precedence and that it is impossible to have

horses, cyclists and walkers sharing the bridle path with moving steam engines.

Besides this they also wanted to lay tracks up to the bridge over the Child Okeford Road which is clearly impossible as there is simply no room for this kind of development."

Network committee members are continuing to investigate how to achieve links between Sturminster Newton and Stalbridge, Blandford and Blandford St Mary, and Spetisbury and Sturminster Marshall.

approve the application by Bellway Homes, suggested they would have to accept it, saying: "We did not win the argument for a separate route for pedestrians."

Councillor Rosemary Holmes said: "It is amazing that the county always encourages children to walk to school. Parents will just go for using the main road in a car." * Further tree work planned by the Countryside Rangers along the route of the Trailway in Blandford was also considered at the same meeting, when Councillor Butler said that the tree pruning last year had been "a bit ferocious".

Tree officer Councillor Mike Owen said: "They have never listened to anything we have said in the past, and since it comes from North Dorset who are the planning authority I think we should just note it."

Councillor Sylvia Hixson Andrews said the majority of work now being proposed was clearance of dead wood and coppicing, and only two trees were being felled.

But members agreed to object to the aggressive nature of work to trees on the Trailway.

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March 2015

Pirates steal the show at panto time FEBRUARY brought out the best of the pantomime performers in the area with a varied selection from the villages around Blandford.

In the Tarrant Valley, the Valley Players went to sea in Treasure Island, written by Stuart Auty and adapted by Alexis Austin and Emma Chalkley, who also produced and directed alongside Rob Chalkley, who played Captain Smollett.

Alexis also played Long John Silver, and Emma played Mrs Hawkins, with Adrian Tuite as both Blind Pew and Ben Gunn, Milly Herridge as Jim, and assorted pirates including Cut Throat Katy (Denise Pearson), Handbag Jones (Vicky Wainwright), and Billy Bones (Steve Herridge).

Mandy Ireland-Jones was Jobsworth, David Bentley was Dr Livesey, Ben Bayer was Black Dog, Peter Pearson was Squire Pegg, and Gay Bentley Pretty played Pearl Plank, together with a chorus of sometimes young sailors and pirates.

The pantomime was dedicated to the memory of the Players' chairman for many years and life president, Brian Hutchings, who died in January. He had joined them for their first panto Tarantella in 1999, when a life-limiting condition did not stop him from throwing himself into performing with enthusiasm, energy and skill and giving a number of memorable performances in subsequent years.

Mr Hutchings and his wife, who had lived in Tarrant Rushton since 1971, subsequently moved to Shaftesbury but remained a Valley Player until his death. He was also a member of Lifestyles and founder chairman of North Dorset Lifestyles, a social group for the physically disabled.

Pirate costumes were all the rage this year, and more appeared in the Spetisbury Occasional Dramatic Society production when they hijacked the characters from no fewer than nine pantomimes and fairy stories.

The show, directed by Julian Black and produced by Sarah Houghton, who also played

The Pirates at Spetisbury village hall: Frances Aspinall, Daniel Miles, Lynne Nicholls, Douglas Page, Anna Brown and Neil Houghton.

Widow Twanky (Steve Hall), The Cat (Sophie Edmond) and Bluebeard (Mick Fowler) in Pirates at Spetisbury.

one of the rats on board the pirate ship Black Heart, again brought together Courtney Loughnane as the Big Bad Wolfie and Laura Mackenzie as Red Riding Hood in a developing love story.

They were joined by Gayle Palmer as Goldie (Locks) in trying to rescue Cinderella (Willow Newton) after her Prince Charming (Sophie Nicholls) failed to rise to the occasion.

Mick Fowler played the pirate captain Blue Beard, ably assisted by a crew led by Anna Brown as Pirate Pat, Lynne Nicholls as Ironfist Phil and a very Scottish Frances Aspinall as Knuckles MacKnuckle.

Jenny Munford played The Wicked Queen, and added in for good measure in the witty script from Sharon Hulme were a Cat (Sophie Edmond) and panto dame Widow Twanky (Steve Hall), with supporting cast including Daniel Miles, Neil Houghton, Abigail Miller, Douglas Page, Mark Cheeseley, Joe Edwards and Gayle Palmer in a variety of roles.

Above & below right: scenes from the Valley Players' Treasure Island.

Wolfie (Courtney Loughnane) and Red Riding Hood (Laura Mackenzie) at Spetisbury.

Left: Cinderella (Willow Newton) & Prince Charming (Sophie Nicholls) in Pirates at Spetisbury village hall.

The Rats at Spetisbury - Gayle Palmer, Sarah Houghton and Joe Edwards.

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March 2015

Leisure centres earn top marks NORTH Dorset District Council's work with two local leisure centres, including that in Milldown Road, Blandford, has been cited as an example of good practice in a government report about savings.

The report, Good Practice in Local Government Savings, came from a study undertaken by Shared Intelligence and Grant Thornton UK LLP on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government.

It recognises the way in which North Dorset District Council worked with the community in Gillingham and a private sector business partner in Blandford to maintain the leisure centres for their communities; improve the facilities offered; provide better value for money for users; and save money for the local taxpayer.

The report highlights three key attributes of leadership, partner relationships and community responsiveness leading to the success of the projects which have saved local taxpayers ÂŁ556,000 a year through the new approach to the two leisure centres.

Crashes close road

Blandford Leisure Centre

Ian Milne, financial services manager at NDDC, said: "I'm really pleased that the work undertaken here in North Dorset has been recognised in this report. It is a culmination of hard work that has seen the council working with parish and town councils as well as other community groups and shows what can be achieved when local communities come

together for mutual benefit."

Blandford Leisure Centre is run in partnership with the private sector organisation SLM Everyone Active. The company's commitment to working closely with the local community was a key factor in its appointment. Costs at the Blandford Leisure Centre are met by the district, county, town and parish councils.

THE A354 near Blandford was temporarily closed on 22nd January after two accidents within half-an-hour on the same stretch of road.

The first collision involved a white Vauxhall Meriva van and a silver Peugeot between Littleton Drove and the Tesco roundabout and the second at Thornicombe was between a green Volvo and a red Toyota Yaris.

Police, ambulance and firefighters attended and at least one person was removed from the car by the firefighters, who also had to remove the roof from one vehicle to gain access to a casualty.

The male driver of the Volvo was taken to hospital with suspected spinal injuries. It is not believed there were other serious injuries.

Children’s charity is seeking volunteers OVER The Wall, a children's charity dedicated to providing therapeutic camps for children with serious illnesses, is seeking volunteers and local youngsters to take part in a series of free camps to be held at Bryanston School throughout April, July and August.

The charity is encouraging local families affected by serious illnesses to join them for the experience of a lifetime. People interested in volunteering can contact them on 02392 477110 or go to otw.org.uk.

As part of the Serious Fun Children's Network, founded by Paul Newman, the charity aims to provide children, teenagers and families with a welcoming, safe and fun environment that allows them to face challenges and overcome obstacles and achieve more than they ever imagined possible such as archery, clay pigeon

shooting, fishing, drumming circles, creative writing, climbing and kayaking.

The recreational activity camps are medically sound environments, with highly skilled medical professionals available 24 hours a day. Over The Wall also offers separate camps for the siblings of children with illnesses and long weekends that the whole family can attend free of charge.

Charity CEO Kevin Mathieson said: "We are delighted to be hosting a camp in Dorset and we encourage any children and families affected by serious illness to join us for what will be a memorable and life-changing experience.

"Our camps have been proven to boost children's confidence, improve their self-belief, enhance their resilience and most importantly, help them reach beyond the limits of their medical condition."

Cesar Sastre from the Damory Veterinary Clinic is holding a series of talks on a common complaint in elderly pets, canine and feline arthritis, in response to demand after an initial talk last November. The first two were at Child Okeford and Charlton Marshall village halls in February, and will be followed by one on Wednesday 11th March at Milborne St Andrew and on Wednesday 25th March at Pimperne village hall.

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March 2015

Issy (runner-up), Billy, Amy, Lauren (winner) and Liam.

Cycleway branded a waste of money DORSET County Council's plans for the extension of the cycleway created in Wimborne Road to further along Black Lane have been attacked as a waste of resources by town councillors and a local resident.

The scheme, drawn up as one of the conditions for the development of Diamond Way by Persimmon Homes, was criticised when the first phase was being developed, and continues to attract criticism for the second.

Diamond Way resident Colin McGrath attended a recent town council planning meeting to object, saying he was appalled at the proposal which he described as "an utter waste of money".

"We don't know where it's going to and I don't expect the pelaton to come hurtling down Black Lane," he said. The plan to include tactile paving for the visually impaired did not sit well, he said, with a route which would be shared by pedestrians, dog walkers, school children and their parents with pushchairs, and cyclists.

"It's a planning officer's foible," he said.

Councillor Steve Hitchings said the cycleway was tied in with the

development and the money could not be spent any other way, but his biggest objection to the scheme was the timing of it, since it was scheduled to start in the first week of June and take six weeks. "It would be better done during the school holidays," he said.

Councillor Haydn White said there had been a lack of consultation with the town from the start. "I know it's developer contribution money, but can't they use it to fill the potholes around the town? It's about time we had some real joined-up thinking."

The scheme involves hard surfacing over grassed areas next to the footpaths, and Councillor Bob Brannigan, declaring a personal interest as a resident in Hambledon Way, said the plans submitted were not accurate, since two of the footpaths shown as existing were not there.

Councillor Roger Carter commented: "Whatever it does, it does not link with the town centre."

Members voted by eight to six against accepting the scheme in the knowledge that it would almost certainly go ahead as planned.

Tri-council chief proposed NORTH Dorset District Council was due to meet on Thursday 19th February to confirm a recommendation from its appointment committee that the post of Chief Executive should be offered to Matt Prosser, who is currently Chief Executive of West Dorset District and Weymouth & Portland Borough Councils.

The current post holder, Liz Goodall, retires on 27th February, and councillors have agreed that one person should become Chief Executive of all three councils as the first step in forming a tri-council partnership.

Young Chef winner Lauren Barton with Blandford Rotary President Steve Adamson and the two adjudicators.

Lauren finds the perfect recipe for success FIVE students from The Blandford School prepared, cooked and served meals of the highest standard in the first round of Rotary's Young Chef competition held at the school.

Head adjudicator Barbara Cossins, head chef at The Langton Arms, complemented them on the creativity and skill they had demonstrated.

The three girls and two boys were required to cook a threecourse dinner for two people using a menu of their own choice in less than two hours, using ingredients they purchased themselves within a

maximum budget of ÂŁ15. They then had to present the cooked meal as attractively as possible.

The winner in a close contest was Lauren Barton, with Issy Morris as runner-up. Lauren will definitely progress to the next round of this national competition, and it is hoped that Issy will join her.

Steve Adamson, President of Blandford Rotary who organised this round, congratulated all the contestants and said: "I enjoyed tasting samples of all five meals and was amazed by the high quality of the cooking and presentation."

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March 2015

Helpers rally to support Hidden Needs charity BLANDFORD Opportunity Group has pledged its support to the Hidden Needs Trust, a charity spearheaded by a 49-year-old Sherborne mother-of-four, who is bidding to raise thousands of pounds for the four such groups in Dorset and Somerset.

Rachel Goodfellow is personally involved as a trustee with the Yeovil Opportunity Group, but her efforts on behalf of the special needs children who receive preschool care and education from the groups have been channelled into the trust on behalf of those in Blandford, Dorchester and Taunton.

Key to her fundraising is a sevenday 220-mile run and walk in Dorset starting on 25th June, featuring a mass musical chairs event at West Bay, an invitation to naturists to join her in a skinny dip at Studland, a musical festival and country fair at Lulworth and a visit to the Opportunity Group in Dorchester.

The route starts and ends at Trent Young's Endowed Primary School where two of her children are pupils and includes 100 miles of coastal path, Portland Bill, and some demanding hills. "I'm looking for sponsors for shoes," she said.

There's an Elton John concert at Weymouth Pavilion in September, and she is also seeking a venue for a Queen tribute band outdoor concert in the summer of 2016.

In February she met up with Colin Stevens, chairman of the Blandford Opportunity Group,

and project leader Sharon Kevern at their base in the Williams Opportunity Hall in Whitecliff Gardens to discuss how they might be able to help with the campaign.

They are appealing for donations for a soft toy tombola to be held at the Bank Holiday Monday May Day Hamdinger in Blandford, to which Rachel will be bringing her training 'spinning' bike.

Rachel is a children's social care tutor and foster parent, whose six-year-old daughter is now in mainstream school after attending the Yeovil Opportunity Group.

She said: "So many people don't know these Opportunity Groups exist so this massive drive is to make everyone aware of the help they give to children, as well as to raise as much money as possible because each group needs at least ÂŁ30,000 a year to continue their valuable work.

"I'll do anything, however wacky.

I'll wear funny hats - I'll even take my clothes off!"

The name of the charity reflects the way that children's problems with things like speech development are not always obvious and are often manifested in later school years. She said: "The response is fantastic and more events are shaping up all the time."

People can check the hiddenneedstrust.org website to see the latest events planned and donate, or can contact her on 01935 815538 to find out more or get involved.

Chairman Colin Stevens and team leader Sharon Kevern at the Blandford Opportunity Group, with Rachel Goodfellow of the Hidden Needs Trust.

Strong response to dementia aid plea A SERIES of support and activity groups for carers and people living with dementia have started in response to the bid to make Blandford and district dementia friendly.

Around one per cent of the population is known to be living with dementia, with many more undiagnosed, and it is estimated that one in three of the over-65s will be affected at some point in their lives.

Chloe Mutton, Prama Care's North Dorset social development worker, has been seconded to the Whitecliff Surgery in Blandford where practice manager Carol Tilley says 156 of the 16,275 patients registered are on a dementia register, a percentage which is matched by figures countywide.

A shared reading group at Blandford Library on the afternoon of the second Monday of the month started in February and is open to all, but is particularly useful for anyone with memory loss for whom poems and quotes trigger memories.

A woodcraft class for men is being launched at Winterborne Kingston

by Martin Loader who can be contacted for details on 07946 387072, and a coffee morning at Sixpenny Handley started on 18th February of which details are available from David Salmon on 01725 552721.

A carers' pamper day was held on 19th February, and a male carers’ skittles group is planned for the last Wednesday of the month. A bereavement support group is being held on the first Monday of the month at the Blandford Parish Centre.

A Dementia Friendly Churches session was held on 16th February at the Parish Centre for anyone unable to attend a similar session last November, and there has been a series of training events for people to become Dementia Friends in the Corn Exchange run by Dementia Champion Michelle Spruce.

For information about any of the groups, contact Chloe on 07790 803156 or by email to chloe.mutton@pramacare.co.uk.

Centenary march DON'T forget the walk taking place on the North Dorset Trailway on Sunday 1st March from Blandford to Shillingstone to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the overnight march of The Royal Naval Division on deployment to fight in Gallipoli.

The walk is approximately eight miles from the start of the Trailway or 10 miles from Blandford Camp to the restored railway station at Shillingstone.

All who complete the walk will get a certificate and there is no entry fee, but individuals and families can pre-register by e-mailing Rndwalk15@aol.co.uk or just turn up between 10am and midday at Station Court in Blandford or the entrance to Blandford Camp. Walkers are encouraged to pre-park a vehicle at Shillingstone station for return transport.

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March 2015

Fay Weldon stars in the main event NEXT in the series of Corn Exchange Challenge events in support of Blandford's Regeneration is the relaunch of last year's successful Craft Markets at a Spring Craft Fair alongside the relaunched Blandford Farmers Market on Friday 13th March.

With the growing interest in food and the quality of ingredients, the search is now underway for more producers to grow the farmers market, and the Market Place, Shambles and Corn Exchange will be the venue every second Friday of the month.

On Sunday 22nd March there is a chance to meet author Fay Weldon when she celebrates the publication of her new collection of short stories, 'Mischief', with a book signing, reading and talk at Beatons Team Rooms in the Market Place. With a career spanning 50 years and over 30 novels, Fay Weldon remains one of Britain's foremost writers.

In Mischief, she introduces her pick of 21 of her own short stories alongside her new novella, The Ted Dreams, a ghost story for the age of cyber culture, big pharma and surveillance. The stories represent a powerful historical record of how society has changed, particularly for women and that everchanging relationship front - the war between the sexes.

Fay Weldon.

Now in her ninth decade, Fay Weldon, who started out as one of the most successful advertising copywriters of her generation and whose credits include The Life and Loves of a She-Devil, and The Cloning of Joanna May, remains one of the most insightful of contemporary chroniclers. In 2001 she was awarded a CBE for services to literature.

Tickets for the event, between 4.30 and 6pm, are £6.99, to include a £2 discount off the cover price of the book purchased at the event. They are available from Beatons Tearooms, Blandford Town Council Offices, Blandford Tourist Information and by email to helen@heraga.co.uk.

Salsa dancers raise cash for charity

Hazel Savage and partner leading the charity Salsa event at Bryanston Club.

A CHARITY salsa event held at Bryanston Club at the end of January raised £234.20 for the local Teddy 20 charity supporting children with cancer and life-limiting conditions.

It was organised by Hazel Savage of Stourpaine, who runs Salsa Amigos, and among the guests were Kim Newton, founder of the charity in memory of her son Ted. Salsa Amigos had earlier in the month started a new beginners' class at Bryanston, where a regular series of classes allows people to progress to improver and advanced level classes.

Advertiser's announcement

Fairtrade fortnight 2015 23 February - 8 March OVER the past 20 years, the Fairtrade mark has become the most ethical label in the UK. The Fairtrade movement has generated significant economic benefits for farmers and workers around the world, from cocoa growers in Ghana to sugar farmers in Belize.

The aim for Fairtrade fortnight in 2015 is to see more people choosing products that change lives so that greater impact can be achieved over the next 20 years and beyond.

In Blandford we are fortunate to have our very own Fairtrade shop at Prama Fair, 37 Salisbury Street, where all goods have been ethically sourced from around the world.

There are plenty of Fairtrade teas and coffees, from several different countries, and they include the range from everyday to the more exotic. Sugar, biscuits, honey, peanut and cashew butters and chocolate complete your requirements for a perfect tea party.

The range of Fairtrade tableware and household goods will brighten your table. If you're looking for gifts there are many to choose from, as well as a treat for yourself of jewellery or a scarf to wear to make you feel special.

To celebrate Fairtrade fortnight, Prama Fair, 37 Salisbury Street, are holding two tasting events.

The first is a coffee morning on Saturday 28th February at 11am and the second is a tea party on Wednesday 4th March at 2.30 pm. Come and try some free samples, view the special offers and new spring stock and meet our new manager, Sarah Lodwick. We look forward to taking tea or coffee with you all.

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March 2015

A wee Burns Night taste of Scotland ROTARIANS and friends displayed their Scottish roots when they celebrated the 256th anniversary of the birth of poet Rabbie Burns at their Burns Night dinner, hosted by Blandford Rotary at the Crown Hotel.

Sporting kilts and tartan, members and guests were welcomed

by Rotary President Steve Adamson, who later gave the toast to the immortal memory, and the Selkirk Grace was recited by MC Nic Nicol.

The evening featured bagpiper Tom Moncur who piped in the diners and provided much of the musical entertainment during the evening.

He also piped in, ceremoniously killed and addressed the haggis, and gave the first in a series of whisky-flavoured toasts. There was also music and song from vocalist Margo Kirk accompanied by accordionist Louise Dukes, who stepped in at short notice

Rotarians and entertainers at their Burns Night celebration in The Crown Hotel, Blandford. due to the ill health of Sam Ryall, and poetry recitals from Judy Adams, Adrian Ford and Andy Munden.

Bob Adams gave the toast to the lassies and Judy Adams gave the response. The evening, which included a series of raffles, concluded with the singing of Auld Lang Syne. All proceeds went to Rotary charities.

Credits roll for film nights THE series of film nights organised by Blandford Town Council in the Corn Exchange continued on 13th February with David Tennant and Billy Connolly in 'What We Did On Our Holiday'.

It concludes on Friday 13th March with Benedict Cumberbatch and Kiera Knightley in 'The Imitation Game', the story of Alan Turing and Bletchley Park in the Second World War. These last two films in the series were both sponsored by Forum Focus and Chaffers.

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March 2015

Congratulations to all the students who took part in the Janet Knight School of Dancing production of Sleeping Beauty at the Coade Hall, Bryanston. The picture shows the finale of the production.

Villagers petition for speed limit to be cut RESIDENTS of Iwerne Minster, who have been concerned for some years about speeds on the A350 and through the village from the C13, presented the findings of a survey and petition in support of an application for the limit to be reduced from 30mph to 20mph.

Particular concerns for the safety of residents and pupils of Clayesmore School coming to and going from their homes, the Art Centre and the main school premises west of the A350, prompted a small group of villagers to start a '20 is Plenty in Iwerne Minster' campaign and, in association with the police, monitor speeds and driver behaviour.

In November 2013 plans were made to set up a Community Speed Watch in the village, funded by the Parish Council, and this was launched in April 2014. The team consists of 14 members and they have monitored for 460 man hours, seeing 43,878 vehicles, of which 1,231 have been reported for speeds in excess of 36mph, with speeds up to 71mph in the 30mph limit.

In September 2014 a survey was undertaken by the Parish Council

to gauge support for the 20mph limit on Tower Hill and Higher Street, which resulted in a 100 per cent 'yes' vote from those residents present. The survey excluded properties unoccupied at the time and the outcome was 89 per cent when they were included.

The findings were presented to Dorset County Councillor Peter Finney and Police Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill by Iwerne Minster Parish Council, local County Councillor Deborah Croney and members of the village's Speed Watch team.

North Dorset MP Bob Walter, who has expressed his support for the application, said: "This petition is the product of one community's hard work to address an issue that has long been the concern of rural villages across North Dorset - excessive driver speeds.

"Backed by local councillors and our Dorset PCC, Iwerne Minster's '20 is plenty' campaign is a great example of what concerted community action can achieve. I very much hope that the County Council will heed the results of the residents' 2014 Community Speed Watch and act on this petition."

Handing over Iwerne Minster Parish Council's petition at County Hall, Dorchester (left to right): Community Speed Watch member Geoff Peters, PCC Martyn Underhill, County Councillor and deputy leader Peter Finney, Iwerne Minster Parish Council chairman John Hooper, Parish Councillor Chris Nadin and County Councillor and North Dorset District Council leader Deborah Croney.

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March 2015

Brooke’s best-known poems were written at Blandford Camp

A busy time in court BACK at home, the courts continued to be busy with petty crime, much of it involving servicemen from the Camp.

Seaman Alexander Duncan of the Benbow Battalion of the RND was reported to have been "hopelessly drunk" on the previous Saturday when he appeared before the County Petty Sessions (The Mayor Mr S N Norman and Mr W E Lawrence) and was fined five shillings.

The court was told by the arresting policeman, PC Clothier, that he had to convey the defendant to the police cells in a wheelbarrow.

At the same court, seaman Percy Grange of the Benbow Battalion was charged with stealing a lady's watch, valued at 17s, the property of Daisy Blanche Cole of Tarrant Monkton on

the previous Saturday evening.

The bench decided to dismiss the case since the prisoner would be dealt with by the naval authorities. The Benbow Battalion's C.O. was a disciplinarian, and minor offences resulted in a week's imprisonment, the first two days on a bread and water diet.

The following day, Eustace Gregory Edward Ellman of the Hawke Battalion RND was charged with stealing a bicycle, to the value of ÂŁ3, the property of Edwin Thomas Butcher, engine driver of Tarrant Hinton, on March 13th 1915.

The prisoner was remanded on bail until the following Saturday, when evidence was given that another seaman from the Hawke Battalion had actually stolen the bicycle. The case was dismissed.

WAR poet Rupert Chawner Brooke was sailing to Gallipoli with the Royal Naval Division and fellow poets William Denis Browne and Patrick Shaw Stewart when his most famous poems came to public attention in March 1915.

The fourth and fifth of his sonnets, 'The Dead' and 'The Soldier', written during the autumn of 1914 when he was based at Blandford Camp, were quoted in full in The Times Literary Supplement on 11th March, and 'The Soldier' was read from the pulpit of St Paul's Cathedral on Easter Sunday (4th April).

In 2007 a collection of love letters written by him to actress Cathleen Nesbitt came up for auction, and it was revealed that the last was written 'off Gallipoli' on 18th March.

He developed sepsis from an infect-

ed mosquito bite and died on 23rd April in a French hospital ship moored in a bay off the island of Skyros in the Aegean on his way to the landing at Gallipoli.

His most famous collection of poetry, 1914 & Other Poems, included all five sonnets and was first published in May 1915, the month after his death. It was followed by 11 further impressions that year and had reached the 24th impression by June 1918.

On 11th November 1985, Brooke was among 16 First World War poets commemorated on a slate monument unveiled in Poets' Corner in Westminster Abbey. The inscription on the stone was written by a fellow war poet, Wilfred Owen. It reads: "My subject is War, and the pity of War. The Poetry is in the pity."

A little-known casualty HENRY Fricker, a private with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, is the only person named on the Blandford War Memorial to have died in March 1915, and little has to date been discovered about him.

He is known to have been born in Blandford and posted to France in November 1914, only to be killed in action on 12th March 1915. He is buried in Estaires Communal Cemetery, Nord-Pas-de-Calais There were, however, losses reported in the County Chronicle from the Dorset Regiment in France and in the Persian Gulf. Eleven were reported killed, together with 33 wounded, of whom four were prisoners of war and another ten being made prisoners of war.

There was also a detailed account of the bombardment by British and French warships of the Turkish forts in the Dardenelles, as a preliminary to the landings at Gallopoli. The attacking force suffered heavy losses, mainly due to the sea mines laid by the Turks to protect those forts and to hinder any invasion from the sea.

ANYONE who would like to share with our readers pictures and details of events relating to relatives who played a part in World War One is invited to contact Forum Focus by calling 01258 459346, emailing editor@forumfocus.co.uk or writing to 18 Tudor Gardens, Blandford DT11 7PL.

The Soldier by Rupert Brooke IF I should die, think only this of me: That there's some corner of a foreign field That is forever England. There shall be In that rich earth a richer dust concealed; A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware, Gave, once, her flowers to love, her ways to roam, A body of England's, breathing English air, Washed by the rivers, blest by the suns of home.

And think, this heart, all evil shed away, A pulse in the eternal mind, no less Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given; Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day; And laughter, learnt of friends; and gentleness, In hearts at peace, under an English heaven

Forum Focus would like to thank the Blandford 14-18 Group for their help in researching this material.

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March 2015

Busy time for camera enthusiasts BLANDFORD Forum Camera Club's Points Cup Competition in January was judged by Paul Thackery.

Top scorers in the print section were Sally Chaloner and Ian Ferris, followed with 9.5 marks for Brian Winkle. In the 29 digital projected images, top marks were awarded to Marilyn Peddle and Colin Cross and 9.5 to Jean Bartlett for two images, Howard Westlake, Graham Hutton and Tym Whitney.

The following week Brian Winkle hosted his annual evening and members heard a presentation about Vivian Maier, a talented photographer whose work was only discovered among her belongings after her death.

Guest speaker on 22nd January was Eva Worobiec who demonstrated the benefit of photographing projects or themes. Some of her work is published as books and magazines as complete subjects but other pictures have been used on covers of paperbacks as stand-alone images - a fascinating insight into the more professional side of photography.

After visiting much of America with Eva's presentation, it was back to Dorset the following week with Paul Sturgess and his talk 'Dorset Through the Lens', which showed what a diverse county we live in, not just the landscape but also the inhabitants, the flora and fauna, and the difference an hour or a season can make to familiar places.

Those interested in the club and its activities and requiring further details should contact Dave Hurley on 01258 451895 or visit the website at bfcclub.co.uk.

Students outstrip FTSE in share dealing challenge A TEAM of four students from the Blandford School has outperformed the FTSE 100 share index and secured a place in the semi-finals of a national investment competition.

The BBoys R Us team beat not only the professionals, but also more than 30,000 other students across the UK in the ifs Student Investor Challenge.

Students Alfie Sims, Callum Grimes, Cameron McNab and Conor Mackenzie made nearly £25,000 dealing in virtual shares in just three months of trading and will now represent their school at the semi-final to be held

in March. If successful at the semi-final stage, they will have the chance of making it through to the national final in April where an all-expenses-paid educational trip to New York and £2,000 for their school is up for grabs.

The free-to-enter competition, run by ifs University College and supported by Bloomberg, provides teams with £100,000 of virtual money to buy and sell shares in FTSE 100 companies.

The competition gives teams of four students aged between 14 and 19 years old the opportunity to experience the dynamic world of share dealing and investing in

the stock market. Now in its 20th year, the competition is the largest of its kind in the UK and is open to international students.

Alison Pask, vice-principal at ifs University College, said: "This competition gives students the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of making investment decisions, which will benefit them throughout their lives when making financial choices. It also introduces them to core concepts such as risk, reward and diversification. This is a real achievement and many congratulations go to the team from Blandford School."

Furniture sale on fundraising agenda THE Friends of Blandford Hospital are holding two fundraising events in March, the first of which is a new venture for the charity, a furniture sale, on Saturday 14th March.

It will be held from 10am to 1pm at Hambledon Farm, Shroton, DT11 8QR, between Child Okeford and Shroton, just off the Iwerne Minster/Farrington crossroads.

Keep up to date with forthcoming events in the Blandford area for the rest of the year by checking out our website forumfocus.co.uk

On sale at very reasonable prices will be a selection of furniture and pictures, together with a large number of collectors' plates.

On Thursday 19th March the

very popular Easter bingo will be held at the hospital. Space is limited so it is best to arrive early to avoid disappointment. The doors open at 6.30pm and eyes down is at 7.30pm.

22

FARMING ALWAYS try to take some dried bread with me for former orphan lambs when I check the animals. A few tame sheep in the flock can be a pain at times, but when the whole flock resolutely refuses to go through a gate, everyone is pleased when the bag of toast is brought out and the flock moves as if by magic.

A couple of weeks ago, the rams were rounded up and taken home after their six weeks with the ewes. Lambing should begin in the first week of May. Fifty of the biggest turnip-eating lambs will be presented to our local abattoir's fieldsman on Thursday.

We have got on with a lot of outdoor jobs, a bit of a contrast to the biblically wet beginning of last year, and have been busy clearing an overgrown bridle path and tidying up fences which have become swamped by brambles and ivy.

We nearly got into trouble with the council for the condition of a path alongside two of our fields.

We had to cut the old fence wire, pull it out in short lengths with a tractor, then deal with the vegetation with the digger, pulling out plants by the roots, and levelling the ground afterwards.

A number of farmers I know have been out preparing their spring seedbeds. No doubt it will start raining just as we start our first field.

One of the young hens from Blandford St Mary has gone broody this week, rather too early, and has at least 15 eggs

March 2015

I

by George Hosford A farming commentary and window on the agricultural world from George Hosford, who farms above Durweston with his family.

A felled blackthorn trunk swamped by ivy roots.

The bright bark of a recently planted dogwood glistens on a sunny frosty morning.

A friendly chap attracted by the silage smell of the glove.

A tame sheep looking for dried bread can be handy. under her - it will be hard work to keep that many warm enough in the cold weather.

The lovely bright bark of a dogwood showed up very well on a recent frosty morning. It was planted three years ago with a variety of other trees and shrubs in the shape of a diamond to commemorate the Jubilee in 2012. Soon after they were planted, many of the children from Durweston school visited on a welly walk and shouted away any evil spirits that might harm the trees.

The battleground is now very clearly set between Blandford and Winterborne Whitechurch, which has been a hotbed of anti wind turbine activity for more than a year. I wonder how those objectors feel about the solar panels now being erected by the main road just south of

Blandford. It seems odd to me that Dorset seems to be so resistant to wind turbines.

We could discuss land use, food or fuel, pollution or subsidies.

Nuclear power requires more subsidy than all the renewables to bribe a big enough company to build a power station. Wind turbines and solar parks can at least be removed, and the land returned to food production. Not so with radioactive polluted land.

Wind turbines only occupy a small footprint and allow farming to continue around their bases.

Sheep can safely graze below solar panels on poor land that cannot grow arable crops. But would it not be sensible to ensure all buildings are covered in solar panels before we start covering the land with them?

See more at viewfromthehill.org.uk.

Road to close for five weeks

Missing man found to be safe

CHURCH Lane in Blandford was due to be closed for five weeks from 25th February between the car park and the Market Place for repair work to the property on the west side of the road which will require scaffolding over the road.

Councillor Joe Hickish, town ward representative on North Dorset District Council, said: "The work on the social housing is very necessary, because some of the flats are in a pretty ropey condition."

THE police helicopter was launched on the morning of 10th February after concerns were raised for the welfare of a man from Blandford.

A spokesman from Dorset Police said the helicopter assisted officers in searching an area of woodland after the 48-year-old was reported missing. The man was located and returned home safely.

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March 2015

Sound of success for young musicians THE top musicians in the local heat of the Rotary Young Musician of the Year competition qualified to compete in the district final at Canford School in Wimborne at the end of February.

Abigail Morgan of Clayesmore School and Joseph Empson of The Blandford School were expected to progress after being judged Young Musician and runner-up respectively.

The heat was again hosted by Clayesmore School.

Abigail's sister Lauren Morgan was also successful as Young Vocalist of the Year. Flautist Abigail played 'Aria and Waltz' from 'Suite Antique' by John

Rutter, and Lauren sang 'Pur Dicesti, o Bocco Bella' by Antonio Lotti and 'So In Love' from 'Kiss Me, Kate'.

Joseph Empson played his own piano composition entitled 'Contemplation', and runner-up for Young Vocalist, Emily Clarke , sang 'Take, O Take Those Lips Away' by Amy Beach.

Junior Young Musician of the Year was Alice McCormick, 12, repeating her win the previous year; she played 'Adelita' by Torrega on the cello. Runner-up was Jack Faulkner, who sang 'Walking In The Air' and 'Over the Rainbow'.

The adjudicators were professional musicians Roy Robinson,

Handbell concert was pitched to perfection REVIEW THE free lunchtime concerts in Blandford church resumed in January with a medley of traditional songs rung out by the handbells of the Shottesford Peelers, pitched exactly right for a lunchtime audience.

The beautiful bells, some over 100 years old, gleamed as the winter sunshine lit up the church and the concert opened with the very cheery 'English Country Garden'.

Jenny Rake's witty introduction to each item engaged the audience from the beginning. For the football supporters in the audience the Peelers gave a stirring rendition of 'When the Saints go marching in' followed by the perennial favourite 'Oranges and Lemons'.

But it was the explanation of how the bells needed to be dampened for 'Little Brown Jug' that brought the loudest laughs.

When Jenny held the C bell flat to her chest, she made it clear that this was only a reference to

Going steady TOWN councillors were told that a Community Speedwatch exercise on 15th January in Shaftesbury Lane, Blandford, between 3.25pm and 4.25pm recorded 574 vehicles, but none were exceeding the 40mph speed limit.

the bell. My favourite was the 'Skye Boat Song' and yes, we did sing along.

As the concert moved to a close with an 'American Medley' an invitation was extended to anyone interested to join the group, the only qualification being the ability to wave your arms and count to four.

In the flat, dark days that followed Christmas this was a joyful start to the year.

HC

Above (from left): Runners-up Emily Clarke and Joseph Empson, Blandford Rotary President Steve Adamson, Young Musician Abigail Morgan, and Young Vocalist Lauren Morgan. Right: Junior Young Musician winner Alice McCormick.

Rowena Carmichael and Celia Gilbert. Chief adjudicator Mr Robinson congratulated all the participants on their high standard of musicianship and offered constructive advice to the winners chosen to progress to the next round of the national competition, now in its eighth year in Blandford.

Fashion Museum reopens THE Blandford Fashion Museum in The Plocks reopened to the public on Monday 16th February following a private view the previous Friday of its new 'A Lady's Day' displays, focusing chiefly on the years after the stock market crash in 1929 and following economic downturn. Other exhibits date from the 1790s and 1870s.

A full report and pictures will appear in the April issue of Forum Focus.

24

SCHOOLS

March 2015

William’s story comes with a happy ending

Caroline Marcus from the National Gallery talks to Clayesmore Prep pupils.

Prep school artists impress Gallery team A SUCCESSFUL Arts Week at Clayesmore Prep last summer impressed curators at the National Gallery who visited the school to see the results after receiving a Powerpoint presentation of the pupils' creative work.

The week was inspired by the National Gallery's 'Take One Picture' - a scheme for primary schools that picks one painting from its collection as inspiration for all kinds of artistic endeavours.

The chosen picture was 'Saint Michael triumphant over the devil' by Bartolome Bermejo - a stunning 15th century painting that was the springboard for a whole host of activities at the school, including a play about the three archangels featuring dance, soundscapes and merry ballads, an opportunity to see busy bees at work in an observation hive, an investigation into the Silk Route, a visit to Salisbury Cathedral and all kinds of associated artistry.

The National Gallery representatives were very impressed with everything they saw and commented on how the Prep pupils had more contextual knowledge of the topics than some GCSE students they had encountered. They returned to London with armfuls of testimonials from the children who will find out in May if any of their work will be exhibited.

YEAR 7 pupil at Clayesmore Prep School, William Cowley (right), has been chosen as the national winner of the 2014 Hodder Children's Books Mini Tales writing competition.

William entered the competition at the end of the summer term and had to complete a story from a starter sentence in a specified number of words.

This first sentence set a scene in which a child arrives at school only to find that his teacher has been replaced by an alien - an interesting premise that obviously inspired William to get creative with his cracking tale.

William's word weaving not only earned him a pile of books and a certificate of excellence, but also ÂŁ500 worth of books for the school library.

His success follows on from a number of other recent Clayesmore creative writing triumphs, including the Prep School having a runner-up in the

Read Write Inc. Competition, an overall winner of the New Horizons Writing Competition, and four second rounders in last year's Radio 2 '500 words' Competition.

Knighton House girls rise to the challenge PUPILS at Knighton House School are encouraged to reach their potential in a variety of ways, including helping them to become better learners.

The entire prep school spent a day learning about the benefits of being a good communicator,

Knighton House pupils tackle a challenge.

showing curiosity, being tolerant and fair, being open to new ideas, taking a risk with their learning and looking back at their learning.

Working in teams they took part in a number of activities designed to challenge their approach to learning, creating a 'gnome' village, debating food miles, and answering impossible questions. Even lunch was challenging as they only had chopsticks to eat with.

The aim was to support the girls in taking risks with their learning and the benefits of making mistakes, with 'being wrong' an integral part of the learning process.

Knighton House is hosting an activities open day on Saturday 28th February. For more information or to book an appointment to visit Knighton House call 01258 452065 or email communications@knighton-house.co.uk.

Follow us on Twitter @forumfocus

SCHOOLS

March 2015

25

Students’ war lesson from the experts YEAR 9 students from The Blandford School met TV historian Dan Snow when they visited Bovington Tank Museum as part of their study of the Great War. They enjoyed four sessions each looking at a different aspect of the war, including the role of the British Army, horses and tanks between 1914-18.

There were opportunities to experience life for a British soldier on the Western front by handling artefacts, dressing in uniforms and being taken by a guide through the trenches.

Another guide explained about the conditions of working and fighting inside a First World War tank.

One group of students also had the exciting opportunity to meet and talk to Dan Snow, who said: "It's been fantastic to talk to such enthusiastic students studying this important period in world history.

"The museum's new Timeline WW1 Tanks app is a fascinating source for the First World War - it allows anyone with an interest to hear direct from the museum's expert historians about the horrors, and find out about the role the tank played in helping the

Allies to break out of the trenches and win the war."

Pimperne pupils see the future PUPILS from Pimperne Primary School had a chance to quiz the contractors working on their new school which is nearing completion on a site next to the village hall.

They visited the building works and spoke with project managers Mike Hill and John Boulton, who said it was hoped the building would be finished by 23rd March in time for the school to move in during the Easter holidays.

Plans are being made to mark the occasion with a special assembly and 'farewell' events when they leave the old building in School Lane at the end of the spring term on Friday 27th March.

Dan Snow with students from The Blandford School at Bovington Tank Museum.

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March 2015

Potato Day a crowd puller A RECORD number of gardeners flocked to Pimperne village hall for the now-annual Potato Day staged by the Blandford Museum Victorian Garden Club in association with Pennards Plants.

The tables were filled with tubs full of seed potatoes, onions and shallots, and there were plenty of other attractions, including fruit trees, plants, and home-made soup and cakes, together with the popular tree identification challenge and other stalls.

Around ÂŁ700 was raised for the club - ÂŁ150 up on last year's event - and 100 more people came through the doors.

The date of next year's event has already been booked for 31st January.

Above: Joy Reynolds, Heather Hinsley and Gillian Jones of the Blandford Museum Victorian Garden Club with the display of cakes on offer from the kitchen. Above right: Carole Beckford of Pimperne with a basket of purchases.

Dog charity brings joy to the lonely MEMBERS and guests of Blandford U3A were fascinated at their meeting in Durweston village hall to hear the story behind Woofability, the Dorset-based charity which provides assistance dogs to disabled people in Dorset, Hampshire and South Wiltshire.

They heard from Andy Clarke of a Blandford woman who had been lonely, living in a housing association flat, until her dog arrived and gave her the confidence to go shopping and attend social events.

The housing association, he said, was now encouraging the charity to provide more for other residents for whom loneliness was a big issue.

He described other success stories with people who had been encouraged to enjoy new activities, and said the charity had started taking dogs into schools for children with reading difficulties.

The charity had been founded after Andy's wife Jenny, paralysed in an accident 30 years ago, had her life transformed by the arrival of an assistance dog.

It was an experience which she wanted to share with others.

They learned that the number of people who could benefit from such help, particularly in Dorset, far outstripped the number of dogs available, and set about researching and developing their own service which was launched

five years ago. Jenny died last year but lives on through the work of the centre at Verwood.

Andy was accompanied at Durweston by his daughter Sarah and golden retriever Bubba, who demonstrated some of the tasks she could perform.

Andy described how the training of the dogs does not start until they are nearing maturity, going first to volunteer puppy walkers, then 'socialisers', including some in the Blandford area, for short periods so they form a stronger attachment to their eventual partner.

Sarah Clarke, left, with her father Andy of Woofability and Christine Smith, chairman of Blandford U3A, at the U3A open meeting in Durweston.

STOURPAINE FC (The Steamers), semi-finalists in their league cup competition, are defending their position at the top of the league in a new strip sponsored by Roberts Aerials. The team is pictured with Marcus Roberts on the left, and their manager Jamie Knight on the right.

SPORT

March 2015

27

Betty still gets around at 95 THERE are not many 95-year-olds playing two 18-hole rounds of golf each week but Betty Crisfield thrives on it.

Having been a member of the Ashley Wood Golf Club since 1977 and believed to be Dorset's oldest lady golfer, Betty goes out in all conditions.

The Blandford course is rarely closed in adverse weather which suits her very well.

She is seldom seen wearing a hat and she always walks the course. She prefers that to using a buggy - and she moves at

the speed of someone much younger.

Asked what she enjoys most about the game and what keeps getting her out on the course, she said: "It's the company, the walk and the scenery."

She doesn't know the secret of her remarkable golfing longevity but did say that doctors had asked her the same question!

To celebrate her recent birthday members of the club presented her with flowers, chocolates and a birthday cake.

Betty (front centre) with ladies' captain Pauline Anderson to her left. Back row centre: Neil Pike (club captain) and John Cousens (club chairman).

Runners say thanks with a cheque LOCAL running club, the Dorset Doddlers, have donated their race profits to support the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance service.

Members of the club presented a ÂŁ1,000 cheque to Leanne Colverson and the crew of the air ambulance, at their base in Henstridge airfield. Those present were thrilled to be given a brief talk from the crew and have time to look around the helicopter, prior to it being called out to an emergency.

The money was raised from the two main running races the Dorset Doddlers organised last year: the Sturminster Newton Half Marathon in August and the Stickler in October.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance was chosen as the club's recipient this year, not only because of the amazing work they do daily to save lives, but also because the air ambulance and its crew came to the rescue of a runner during the Stickler race in October 2014.

The runner had collapsed three-quarters-of-amile from the finish in a field which was inaccessible to a normal ambulance. The air ambulance arrived swiftly and moved him to a waiting ambulance, keeping him safe and stable until he was taken to Dorchester Hospital, where he made a full recovery.

For further information on The Doddlers visit dorsetdoddlers.org or turn up at one of their training sessions.

Book team seeks help THE Royal Voluntary Service is seeking volunteers and customers for its Home Library Service, through which books are delivered to the housebound free of charge from the library.

The service, funded by Dorset Library Service, is available across Dorset to anyone who cannot easily get to their local library, and includes large print and talking books.

All RVS volunteers are DBS checked and receive ongoing training and support.

The RVS can also provide befriending, shopping, and other help.

Anyone interested in receiving or volunteering can contact Maria Jacobson, RVS Manager Dorset Home Library Service, on 07786 635154 and 01305 236666, or email Maria.Jacobson@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.

The Doddlers with their cheques, the air ambulance and members of the crew at the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance base at Henstridge.

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March 2015

Forum Focus - forthcoming meetings & events MARCH Sunday 1st March: Gallipoli March, North Dorset Trailway, Blandford to Shillingstone, 10am to 1pm Round Robin Ramblers meet outside Winterborne Houghton church 2pm for 4.5-mile walk, details 01258 880044 Serious Kitchen present The Whispering Road, St Nicholas School, Child Okeford, 7,30pm, bookings 01258 861391 Monday 2nd March: Blandford Floral Group meeting, United Reformed Church Hall, 2.15pm, demonstration by Margaret Heal "Hearts and Flowers", visitors welcome £5.

Tuesdays 3rd, 10th and 24th March: Blood Donor sessions, 12.50 to 3.30pm and 4.30 to 7.15pm, Crown Hotel, Blandford Wednesday 4th March: Fairtrade Fortnight tea party at Prama Fair, 37 Salisbury Street at 2.30pm (see article page 17) Thursday 5th March: Time for a cuppa - Dementia UK event, Parish Centre, Blandford, 10am to noon, tea, coffee, cakes and knitting Blandford Museum First Thursday talk, The Church Cupola project, museum 7.30pm Friday 6th March: Little Soldier present The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha, Durweston village hall, 7.30pm, bookings 01258 452641 Shillingstone Barn Dance Club with the Arish Mel English Ceilidh Band and caller Dick Williams, 7.45 to 9.45pm, The Portman Hall, Blandford Rd, Shillingstone, tickets 01258 861184 Saturday 7th March: Barn Dance with the Hambledon HopStep Band, Durweston village hall, 7.30pm, proceeds to the Weldmar Trust and Durweston Playing Field, contact 01258 488883 Monday 9th March: Fly the Flag for the Commonwealth Day, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 10am Shared Reading session, Blandford Library, 2.30 to 3.30pm Tuesday 10th March: Start of North Dorset Local Plan inquiry, Council Chamber, Nordon, Salisbury Road, Tuesday to Thursday to 19th March Wednesday 11th March: Blandford Forum Film Society presents 'Mr Turner', The Blandford School, 7.30pm, guest tickets 01258 453851 Wednesdays 11th and 25th March: Damory Vet Cesar Sastre talks on arthritis in pets, 7.30pm,

Entries in this diary are free of charge. If you have an event you would like included, please send details to Nicci Brown, 01258 459346 or email s.n.b@btinternet.com. This page is available and regularly updated on our website at www.forumfocus.co.uk Milborne St Andrew Village Hall on 11th and Pimperne Village Hall on 25th, to book call 01258 452626 Thursday 12th March: The Monteverdi Apprentices Recital, St Andrew's Church, Fontmell Magna, 6.30pm, for tickets call 01747 811853 or email info@springheadtrust.org.uk Friday 13th March: Relaunch of Blandford Farmers

Youth Cancer Trust Bond themed Casino Night, Fox Inn, Ansty, tickets 01258 880328 or from the Fox Sunday 15th March: Living Spit present Elizabeth I - Virgin on the Ridiculous, Tarrant Gunville village hall, 7.30pm, bookings 01258 830361 Monday 16th March: Blandford Blind Club meets Williams Opportunity Hall, 2 to

A scene from the Little Soldier Productions' 'The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha' coming to Durweston village hall on 6th March.

Market in the Market Place with Spring Craft Market in the Shambles and Corn Exchange, 9am to 3pm Moviola in The Corn Exchange, 'The Imitation Game', with Benedict Cumberbatch, 7.30pm.

New table layout, refreshments from 7pm or bring your own Saturday 14th March: Khaki Canteen 9am - 2pm Corn Exchange - WW1 displays and refreshments on sale Fairtrade Coffee Morning at Blandford Parish Church 10am to noon Cats Protection Coffee Morning and stalls, Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, Blandford 10am to 12.30pm Friends of Blandford Hospital Furniture Sale, Hambledon Farm, Shroton DT11 8QR, 10am to 1pm Bach St John Passion, Durweston Parish Church, 7.30pm

4pm, fish & chips, Irish music and quiz in honour of Tom O'Sullivan Talk by Harry Bucknall 'Like a Tramp, Like a Pilgrim', on 1400mile walk from St Paul's Cathedral to Rome. Child Okeford Centre of Care and Learning, 7.30pm Wednesday 18th March: Blandford Carers meet Durweston village hall 2 to 4pm, speaker from Leonardos Dorset Wildlife Trust North Dorset Group meets Fontmell Magna Village Hall (SP7 0JU) at 7.30pm, illustrated talk by Dr Charlotte Bolton on The Mapping Seas Project Thursday 19th March: Blandford Art Society meets at Pimperne Village Hall, 2pm, for talk by Antigone Neaum - 'William Morris - not just that wallpaper guy'. Non-members welcome - £3 Blandford Heart Forum 2.30pm, Blandford Hospital restaurant,

speaker Amy Brenan of Dukes Auctioneers and Valuers Friends of Blandford Hospital Easter Bingo, Blandford Hospital, eyes down 7.30pm Saturday 21st March: Easter Egg Hunt & Easter bonnet competition, craft tables, face painting, cake stall and refreshments, Pimperne Preschool, Old Bakery Close, Pimperne, 10am to noon 'See ME rather than my dementia' seminar with Ben Bano and Elizabeth Webbe, Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, 10am to 3pm, call 01258 452817 or email margetholt195@btinternet.com The Mill Singers in concert with young soloists at St Nicholas Church, Winterborne Kingston, 7.30pm, tickets £8 at the door or from 01929 471193 or annabelshaxson@btinternet.com Forest Forge present Leaves on a Line, Memorial Hall, Sturminster Marshall, 7.30pm, details 01258 857814 Sunday 22nd March: The Corn Exchange Challenge presents 'Fay Weldon in Conversation', Beatons Tearooms, Blandford. 4.30 to 6.00pm, tickets from Beatons; the Town Council Office; Tourist Information Centre or contact Helen Cooper on helen@heraga.co.uk Wednesday 25th March: Blandford Forum Townswomen's Guild meets, Williams Opportunity Hall, Whitecliff Gardens, Blandford, AGM lunch and social Blandford Forum Film Society AGM and film to be announced, The Blandford School, 7.15pm Thursday 26th March: Blandford & District Horticultural Society meeting and Spring Show, 7.30pm, new members and visitors welcome, speaker Derek Luther, "What we expect from Fuchsias" Friday 27th March: Blandford & District U3A Open Meeting, 2pm at Durweston Village Hall, Lt Col (Retd) Bob Brannigan on the Royal Naval Division. All welcome, details 01258 455081 Saturday 28th March: Blandford Museum opens for 2015 season.

Please note new opening times 10am-4pm Monday to Saturday Sunday 29th March: The Blandford Run organised by the Dorset Section of the Vintage Motor Cycle Club starts from the Corn Exchange, Blandford at 11.00am Monday 30th March: Bouncy Fun inflatable play for children 09 years, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 10am to 4pm